Political Quotes

“When I saw H.R. 1937 as submitted, I agreed with the minority on the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee that it was in need of a significant amendment, in particular, in the definition of ``strategic and critical minerals.'' The amendment submitted by Congressman Lowenthal is also a good basis and would correct the bill. However, as this has been rejected in the past, I took a less stringent approach that I believe would be a basis that would at least eliminate the most egregious aspects of the definition. This bill addresses a real problem, which is that long permitting delays for mining projects in the United States, especially in remote or environmentally sensitive areas, can reach 7 to 10 years in some cases. This represents a significant project risk for potential investors, which makes them historically more likely to develop projects outside of the United States when there are opportunities to produce the same mineral products. Increasing international government scrutiny on environmental issues for mining projects outside of the United States along with civil instability in many mineral resource-rich countries has prompted project proponents to look to the United States as a safer alternative, given that projects can be developed in a reasonable timeframe. That said, Mr. Chairman, the majority's claims of mining permit delays for all kinds of mining projects that prompted this bill are unfounded.…”